These sensors come with factory-optimized settings that eliminate the need for sensitivity adjustments for true plug-and-play set-up, while eliminating erroneous and unauthorized sensitivity adjustments.

"Unlike many miniature photoelectric sensors that can miss some portions of a PCB due to slots or other irregularities, the ML8 PCB series delivers more consistent detection of irregular objects, more precise and repeatable detection of edges, faster set-up and change-over, and more versatile mounting and visibility by virtue of their slotted mounting pattern and two-position status LED's," says Jeff Allison, Product Manager.

ML8 sensors are available in convergent mode with a narrow sensing strip for "better" optical performance, and background suppression mode with an array of two or three light spots for "best" optical performance. Because the light spot(s) are 80% narrower than comparable diffuse mode models, it is possible to precisely identify the edge of a PCB so its position is more accurately known. The technology behind the ML8 PCB series also enables a sharp sensing range cut-off, so that even reflective mirror-like machine panels behind the PCB are ignored.

The compact 23 mm x 31 mm x 11 mm housing fits into tight confines. An additional status LED is visible when the sensor is mounted facing up to see objects passing overhead. Additionally, it has enhanced ambient light protection that is critical for upward facing photoelectric sensors. This allows ML8 PCB sensors to ignore the effects of overhead lighting.

In addition to PCB detection in semiconductor applications, these photoelectric sensors are well suited for use in solar industry applications, as well as packaging and material handling applications where thin, irregular targets such as CDs or flat pouches must be reliably detected.

Pepperl+Fuchs is a leading developer and manufacturer of electronic sensors and components for the global automation market. Continuous innovation, enduring quality, and steady growth guarantees continued success, since more than 60 years. Pepperl+Fuchs employs 5,600 people worldwide and has manufacturing facilities in Germany, USA, Singapore, Hungary, Indonesia and Vietnam, most of them ISO 9001 certified.